Boise City Council approves geothermal donation and zoning ordinance changes

The Boise City Council convened on March 5, 2025, for an evening session that began with a moment of silence followed by the Pledge of Allegiance. The meeting was called to order with four council members present and two absent. The council approved the minutes from the previous meeting held on February 25, 2025.

A significant highlight of the meeting was the approval of a consent agenda that included a notable donation from the Harris Family Partnership. The council accepted a donation of geothermal water, which is expected to nearly quadruple the city’s geothermal capacity. The mayor expressed gratitude for this legacy gift, emphasizing its importance for providing clean heat to residents and supporting the city’s sustainability goals. The donation will allow more buildings to access the geothermal system, which currently serves 89 buildings in downtown Boise.

Following the consent agenda, the council moved on to ordinances. Two ordinances, ORD-8-25 and ORD-9-25, were read and approved on their third reading. These ordinances involved changes in zoning classifications for properties located at 3919 West Overland Road and 204 South Eagleson Road, respectively. The council unanimously supported these changes, which aim to facilitate mixed-use development and urban residential growth.

Additionally, the council addressed ORD-10-25, which involved updating the reimbursement rate schedule for solid waste collection services provided by Republic Services. This ordinance was also approved after a brief discussion, with representatives from Republic Services present in the audience.

The meeting concluded with a discussion on a preliminary plat for a residential subdivision located at 3514 North Colchester Drive. The Planning and Zoning Commission had previously recommended approval, and the council was set to review the terms and conditions of the staff report.

Overall, the meeting underscored the council's commitment to enhancing Boise's geothermal capabilities and managing urban development effectively, while also addressing essential services like waste collection. The next steps include a public ceremony to celebrate the geothermal donation and further discussions on the proposed subdivision.